Boracay Cleared of Zika Virus — Aklan PHO

Boracay Island, Aklan — This resort island has been cleared by the Department of Health (DOH) of any case of the dreaded Zika virus.

Dr. Cornelio Cuachon Jr. of the Aklan Provincial Health Office said that DOH personnel from the regional office came to Boracay in several occasions to do random field testing. The personnel took random samples of mosquitoes in Boracay to determine if they have acquired Zika virus.

Last April, a South Korean tourist was reported of having contracted the Zika Virus after visiting Kalibo and Boracay.

“While Boracay has been cleared we still continue to be vigilant. We urge the present administration to improve the health facility monitoring system on tourists coming to the country,” said Cuachon.

The PHO admitted lack of capability in handling an outbreak of diseases such as the Zika Virus in Boracay as it does not have enough equipment and facility to monitor possible cases.

“Right now, we urge every tourist coming to Boracay to be honest. Contact medical health personnel immediately if they feel something different… We don’t have available ambulance yet in transporting patients with specialized type of disease to a medical facility,” said Cuachon. (PNA)
LAP/AJP/JNAGUIRRE/LPT